Snow melts, ground warms as spring planting season nears

North Dakota's winter wheat crop is rated 78 percent in good to excellent condition.

FARGO, N.D. (AP) — A week of warm weather in North Dakota melted much of the remaining snow in the state and warmed the ground as farmers prepare for the spring planting season.

The weekly crop report from the federal Agriculture Department says producers are continuing to get equipment ready and that April 20 is likely to be the average starting date for fieldwork in the state.

Topsoil moisture supplies are rated 95 percent adequate to surplus, and subsoil moisture is 92 percent in those categories.

North Dakota's winter wheat crop is rated 78 percent in good to excellent condition.

In the ranching community, calving is 52 percent done and lambing is 67 percent complete.

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